Southeast Asia Diary

​Tomorrow we leave the Friendship Village. After a little over two weeks of creating a life at The Friendship Village it is time to start living as a backpacker. I made some real connections with people here even with a language barrier. The residents here have made me feel a sense of clarity and I will truly miss their smiles and friendly faces. Two days ago when a lot of the residents were performing dances and signing songs in front of the international committee, parents and volunteers I could see how happy they were in the spotlight. Their disadvantages were not a factor in their performances and I think that was the reason I felt their sincere happiness. I also had another sense of clarity to break up with my ex after almost a year. He wanted a different life than me. One with a routine, no surprises and it just wasn’t for me. For now I will focus on myself before I think about starting another relationship.

First night away we are staying in a $5 a night hostel in the middle of Hanoi before Jenn leaves for a weekend trip with Julie. When Jenn is gone with Julie for the weekend I will be staying at the cheapest hostel around that is $3.64 a night! I cannot believe how cheap it is and I know it will probably not have many amentities but I don't need them so who cares! I will spoil myself once in a while with a nice hotel room but I would rather do it later on during the trip than in the beginning. I am a bit nervous to be by myself this weekend exploring and trying to make friends but I will keep an open mind about everything and try to be smart out on the streets by myself.

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​Through my travels the only two pieces of technology I brought were my cell phone and my camera. I kept a small blue journal with me throughout the whole trip to document when times were quiet. I suggest everyone that travels to bring a Journal and Pencil.